After a few training sessions on the boat I have noticed a (perhaps) surprising parallel between Dragon Boating and our Intergen projects. The goal of our Dragon Boat team is to successfully complete a race (without capsizing!), coming out number one in our category. With our Intergen projects the goal is rather similar: we aim to deliver successful solutions to our clients, proving that Intergen is the number one solution provider in its class.
Further parallels become apparent on board the boat. In order to achieve our goal, the team works together to a consistent paddle stroke, which we follow from the Drummer. This reminds me of the control applied to projects by the Project Manager (PM). The Drummer, like the PM, guides and encourages the members of the team to do what is needed to achieve the overall goal. While the Drummer can’t do the work for us, the Drummer keeps us on target with every paddle pattern required to be successful: racing start, power strokes where required, consistent stroke patterns for cruise mode, and a power finish.
The Sweep on the Dragon Boat keeps the boat on course, just like the Solution Lead on a project who ensures the quality of the solution is maintained throughout the course of the project. Like the Solution Lead, the Sweep also provides the team with appropriate guidance, in support of the Drummer, where he/she has a view over the direction of the boat that the Drummer isn’t as able to provide. When we all work together as a team, the paddles slice smoothly through the water, and the boat glides at optimal speed. From the back of the boat to the front, we keep an eye ahead of us to ensure we are keeping time with our crew members. On a project, unity and timing is equally crucial to meet deadlines and hit our targets.
A number of members on our Dragon Boat team this year, especially me, are just learning the skills and techniques involved, which likens us to graduates with respect to the rest of the crew. The more senior members of the crew help us out by giving us advice on our technique and mentoring us on the rules and regulations associated with the sport. Like with our Intergen project teams, senior and experienced team members offer guidance and mentoring where needed.
One of the rules of engagement in Dragon Boating, is a congratulatory slap on the shoulder of the crew members around you when the team puts their all into a race. There are high-fives all round as each team member exits the boat following the completion of a milestone, recognition of the effort everyone has put in as a team. A team huddle to debrief and discuss the lessons learned and focus on the road ahead gives us the direction and focus we need for the next milestone. Just like on our projects, it is important to remember to take time to congratulate each other on a job well done, to celebrate successes and take on board lessons learned.
Be it in the Dragon Boat or part of an Intergen project team, we are all striving together towards a common goal. Teamwork is paramount to achieving that goal. It is great teamwork that is key to successfully getting the boat/project over the line, delivering to expectations, and showing we are indeed number one in our class! “Power on 3, 2, 1...”